Tucker Carlson was pranked by a man posing as Kate Middleton’s photo editor

Here’s the deal… Joshua Pieters (a very popular prankster on social media) sent an email to Tucker’s team claiming to be the person who edited the photo of Kate Middleton and her three children that went viral earlier this week.

Tucker’s team responded and Pieters got his accomplice. Archie Manners to replace the alleged photo editor they called “George.” Archie was asked for proof of employment and the original photo that he claimed to have edited.

Pieters used some quick Photoshop tricks to create the necessary documentation… although, not before adding a couple of ridiculous additions to the employment contract, such as a clause about losing a limb for a failed probationary period, to see what so close was Tucker’s team. He was reviewing the documents provided.

In the end, the duo was able to secure an interview with Tucker himself…one that they secretly recorded. Look… it seems that Tucker and Archie, the imposter, had a long conversation about the photo — a talk that clearly got TC very excited.

Tucker’s people apparently told Pieters and his compatriot that the interview would air next week… although it seems the Goon Squad let them off the hook because they posted the video clearing things up on Thursday.

FWIW…sources with direct knowledge tell us that Tucker’s team wasn’t entirely convinced the story was real to begin with, but decided to record the interview anyway while continuing to investigate the story.

We’re told that an hour after filming wrapped, someone recognized Archie as a famous prankster and knew they weren’t going to do the interview. It’s a lesson in journalism, but generally speaking, you can’t fault the team for at least talking to someone who makes this claim.